News 

Chadron State College to host ninth annual Best of the West
Chadron State College to host ninth annual Best of the West

The Chadron State College Business Academy will host the ninth annual Best of the West Business Competition for regional high school students in the Student Center Tuesday.

Sidney Middle School release honor roll student names

Sidney Middle School release honor roll student names

Sidney Middle School recently announced first semester and second quarter Honor Roll students.

Sidney High School announces Honor Roll students

Sidney High School announces Honor Roll students

The Sidney High School administration recently released the names of 2025-2026 Honor Roll students

Sidney ticket wins $3,125 in Nebraska Pick 4 drawing

Sidney ticket wins $3,125 in Nebraska Pick 4 drawing

A lucky Nebraska Pick 4 ticket sold in Sidney is worth $3,125. The winning ticket was purchased at Git ‘n Split on Illinois Street.

County tables request for fire department backup generators KENO funding

County tables request for fire department backup generators KENO funding

The Cheyenne County Commissioners tabled a request by the Potter Volunteer Fire Department for KENO funds to help purchase back-up generators.

Organization files suit over DOJ request for Nebraska voter data

Organization files suit over DOJ request for Nebraska voter data

A U.S. Department of Justice request for voter data is facing some pushback in Nebraska.

Dangerously cold wind chills expected across Panhandle, eastern Colorado

Dangerously cold wind chills expected across Panhandle, eastern Colorado

Bitter cold is on the way. Wind chills as low as 30 below zero are expected Friday morning across western Nebraska and eastern Colorado, with dangerously cold conditions continuing through the weekend.

New fire hall to centralize equipment for Potter

New fire hall to centralize equipment for Potter

A six-bay 9,000-plus square foot new fire hall will help Potter Volunteer Fire Department store all of its equipment in one place.

No injuries reported after shots fired call in Scottsbluff

No injuries reported after shots fired call in Scottsbluff

A Minatare man was arrested after police responded to a shots fired call in Scottsbluff late Tuesday night. No injuries were reported.

Sidney police appoint Jose Ruiz as lieutenant, operations commander

Sidney police appoint Jose Ruiz as lieutenant, operations commander

Sidney Police have named Jose Ruiz as lieutenant and operations commander. Ruiz brings more than 20 years of law enforcement experience, including service as Kimball’s police chief, and is expected to be on full duty next month.

Lynne Walz enters race for governor

Lynne Walz enters race for governor

Former state senator Lynne Walz announced Wednesday morning that she is going to seek the Democratic nomination for governor in the May primary.

Roelle new Extension Instructor for Cheyenne, Deuel counties

Roelle new Extension Instructor for Cheyenne, Deuel counties

Nebraska Extension Cheyenne County recently announced Ashlyn Roelle as the new Extension Instructor for Cheyenne and Deuel counties.

NPPD donates $15K to WNCC

NPPD donates $15K to WNCC

Western Nebraska Community College received a $15,000 donation from the Nebraska Public Power District.

Small exterior fire quickly extinguished at Sidney home

Small exterior fire quickly extinguished at Sidney home

Sidney firefighters responded to a reported structure fire Tuesday evening on Newton Street. Crews quickly located and extinguished a small exterior fire, limiting damage.

Mitchell firefighters contain grass fire north of town

Mitchell firefighters contain grass fire north of town

Mitchell firefighters knocked down a grass fire north of town Monday afternoon after quick action by a road grader operator helped keep it from spreading.

Sidney residents gather downtown to share views on national issues

Sidney residents gather downtown to share views on national issues

A small group of residents gathered in downtown Sidney Tuesday afternoon to share concerns about national issues, while others in the community offered differing perspectives shaped by personal experience.

Bridgeport speech team wins Class C/D title at Scottsbluff meet

Bridgeport speech team wins Class C/D title at Scottsbluff meet

Bridgeport’s speech team took first overall and the Class C/D title at the Scottsbluff Speech Meet.

Nebraska bill would require civics test for lawmakers

Nebraska bill would require civics test for lawmakers

A bill would require Nebraska lawmakers to complete a civics knowledge test within 90 days of taking their oath in office.

'The Depot' in Potter opens it doors to the Panhandle

'The Depot' in Potter opens it doors to the Panhandle

'The Depot' opened Monday in grand fanfare with vendors sharing their products, enjoying an overflow crowd as the historic grocery store is reopened.

Middle school students invited to apply for 2026 National Civics Bee

Middle school students invited to apply for 2026 National Civics Bee

Middle school students across the Nebraska Panhandle are invited to apply for the 2026 National Civics Bee, with a chance to advance to a national competition in Washington, D.C.

Photos: Grand opening of Potter's new general store 'The Depot'

Photos: Grand opening of Potter's new general store 'The Depot'

Photos from the grand opening of "The Depot," a new general store and commercial kitchen space in Potter, on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026. Congratulations Drew Enevoldsen and family. Full story coming on newschannelnebraska.com.

Bill would require Nebraska students to learn about communism

Bill would require Nebraska students to learn about communism

A Nebraska senator wants schools to teach students the dangers of communism. State Sen. Dave Murman of Glenvil, proposed LB 1024 last week.

Rep. Flood says Nebraskans can expect larger tax refunds

Rep. Flood says Nebraskans can expect larger tax refunds

Tax season is about to begin as 1099s and W-2s arrive in mailboxes across Nebraska. 

U.S. Education Department pauses wage garnishment

U.S. Education Department pauses wage garnishment

The U.S. Department of Education announced it is pausing plans to garnish wages of student loan borrowers in default. The seizure of tax refunds and other federal benefits from borrowers with student loan debt are also being delayed.

Electrical fire destroys trailer home in Terrytown

Electrical fire destroys trailer home in Terrytown

An electrical fire destroyed a trailer home in Terrytown on Saturday afternoon.

Grass fire west of Highway 71 burns 76 acres in Banner County

Grass fire west of Highway 71 burns 76 acres in Banner County

Strong winds fueled a grass fire in Banner County on Sunday, burning 76 acres west of Highway 71. Firefighters from multiple departments contained the blaze, which was caused by a downed power line.

Sidney speech team wins Western Conference title at Scottsbluff

Sidney speech team wins Western Conference title at Scottsbluff

Sidney earns team title at Western Conference Speech Meet on Saturday in Scottsbluff.

State Patrol: Driver critically injured after officer-involved shooting following pursuit in Sioux County

State Patrol: Driver critically injured after officer-involved shooting following pursuit in Sioux County

NSP says a driver was critically injured after an officer-involved shooting at the end of a pursuit Friday night in rural Sioux County. No officers were hurt.

Grass fire near I-76 west of Fort Morgan contained

Grass fire near I-76 west of Fort Morgan contained

The grass fire near I-76 west of Fort Morgan has been contained.

Grass fire near I-76 in Sedgwick County contained; semi driver charged

Grass fire near I-76 in Sedgwick County contained; semi driver charged

A fast-moving grass fire near I-76 in Sedgwick County was contained after a massive multi-agency response. Investigators say sparks from a semi-truck ignited the blaze, and charges have now been filed. No injuries or damage reported.

Red Flag Warning issued Saturday for Panhandle, northeast Colorado

Red Flag Warning issued Saturday for Panhandle, northeast Colorado

Red Flag Warnings are in effect Saturday for the Nebraska Panhandle and northeast Colorado.

Peetz discusses four-day school week option

Peetz discusses four-day school week option

Peetz School Superintendent invited two rural superintends whose schools changed from a five-day to four-day weeks to discuss the process, and why.

Kimball police chief resigns

Kimball police chief resigns

After nearly three years on the job in Kimball, Police Chief Jose Ruiz is expected to leave his post next week. Ruiz has opted not to speak publicly about his exit until the city council accepts his resignation at next Tuesday's meeting. Sargent Jose Barb

Smith files for re-election in Nebraska’s 3rd District

Smith files for re-election in Nebraska’s 3rd District

Rep. Adrian Smith has filed for re-election in Nebraska’s 3rd Congressional District, citing work on tax relief, agriculture, trade and border security as he seeks another term in Congress.

Sidney volunteer firefighters log thousands of hours, seek community support

Sidney volunteer firefighters log thousands of hours, seek community support

Sidney volunteer firefighters logged more than 5,000 hours of service in 2025 and responded to 210 calls from January through October.

Elks back Banisters Leadership program in Sidney

Elks back Banisters Leadership program in Sidney

A $6,000 grant from the Elks helped the Sidney location of Banisters Leadership Academy purchase recreational equipment.

Nebraska Legislature opens session with new bills, governor outlines priorities

Nebraska Legislature opens session with new bills, governor outlines priorities

Nebraska lawmakers opened the session with 171 new bills introduced as debate begins. Gov. Jim Pillen outlined priorities on taxes, jobs, education and public safety during his State of the State address.

High winds continue to batter Sidney region

High winds continue to batter Sidney region

High wind warnings remain in effect as gusts topping 70 mph cause damage, power outages and travel disruptions across the Panhandle and surrounding areas. Schools and activities impacted.

Man arrested in Kimball County on felony warrant

Man arrested in Kimball County on felony warrant

Kimball County deputies arrested a 52-year-old man Sunday on a felony warrant out of Iowa, along with charges of resisting arrest and obstruction.

High wind warnings remain in effect as powerful gusts batter tri-state region

High wind warnings remain in effect as powerful gusts batter tri-state region

High wind warnings remain in effect Friday across the Nebraska Panhandle, southeast Wyoming and northeast Colorado. Gusts near 70 mph have already caused a semi blowover on I-80 and dangerous travel conditions.

Juvenile taken into custody after vehicle break-ins reported in Alliance

Juvenile taken into custody after vehicle break-ins reported in Alliance

Alliance police report a juvenile has been taken into custody after multiple vehicle break-ins on West 11th Street and Sheridan Avenue.

Perkins County Schools names Ben Jones as next superintendent

Perkins County Schools names Ben Jones as next superintendent

Perkins County Schools has named Ben Jones as its next superintendent.

SAGA Fund celebrates community support, announces new challenge grant

SAGA Fund celebrates community support, announces new challenge grant

The SAGA Fund celebrated $1.25 million raised for its forever fund Thursday and announced a new $1 million challenge grant. Here’s what it means for Sidney and the region.

Gov. Pillen proposed large spending cuts to offset $471M budget shortfall

Gov. Pillen proposed large spending cuts to offset $471M budget shortfall

LINCOLN, Neb. - While insisting concerns of a budget crisis in Nebraska are overblown, Governor Jim Pillen is proposing a nine figure cut in spending. During his annual State of the State address Thursday morning, Governor Pillen proposed $495 million wor

Board of Regents approves $800 million transaction to become sole owner of Nebraska Medicine

Board of Regents approves $800 million transaction to become sole owner of Nebraska Medicine

The University of Nebraska is moving forward with purchasing Clarkson Regional Health’s share of Nebraska Medicine.

High winds, fire danger a concern for the Nebraska Panhandle region

High winds, fire danger a concern for the Nebraska Panhandle region

High winds and extreme fire danger are expected across the Panhandle and tri-state region Thursday and Friday. Gusts up to 70 mph are possible.

Bridgeport Elementary among 63 schools nationally recognized for academic achievement

Bridgeport Elementary among 63 schools nationally recognized for academic achievement

Two Nebraska schools have been named 2025 National ESEA Distinguished Schools, joining 63 schools across the U.S. recognized for extraordinary success in improving student achievement.

Over or under: Mobile sports gambling petition looks to gain momentum

Over or under: Mobile sports gambling petition looks to gain momentum

Sports betting is allowed at casinos in Nebraska but not on your phone, like it is in 38 other states.

Sidney Fire Chief presented with ‘Save Award’

Sidney Fire Chief presented with ‘Save Award’

Potter Fire Chief Mark Onstott recognized Sidney Fire Chief Matt Butts for his response to a medical call in November. Chief Butts in turn thanked first responders, communications and law enforcement for their dedication.

Sidney police to open applications for spring citizens academy

Sidney police to open applications for spring citizens academy

Ever wondered what goes on behind the badge? The Sidney Police Department is opening applications Feb. 2 for its Spring 2026 Citizens Academy, offering hands-on training, simulations and ride-alongs.

Pine Bluffs police cadets recognized for service at Frontier Days parade

Pine Bluffs police cadets recognized for service at Frontier Days parade

Pine Bluffs police cadets were recognized by the Cheyenne Police Department for their help during the Cheyenne Frontier Days parade, assisting with traffic control, safety patrols and parade setup.

Morrill County deputy arrests Minatare man after pursuit in Bridgeport

Morrill County deputy arrests Minatare man after pursuit in Bridgeport

A Morrill County deputy arrested a Minatare man after a reported late-night pursuit in Bridgeport that included speeding, a failure to stop, and damage to mailboxes and a gate.

Fire quickly contained at Chadron laundromat

Fire quickly contained at Chadron laundromat

A small fire at a Chadron laundromat was quickly contained today thanks to the fast response of the Chadron Volunteer Fire Department.

City Council chooses Phillips as Deputy City Clerk/Office Manager

City Council chooses Phillips as Deputy City Clerk/Office Manager

The Sidney City Council Tuesday approved promoting Kim Phillips to Deputy City Clerk. At Clerk Lori Borchert's March 2 retirement, the council will then decide to promote her to Clerk/Treasurer.

High wind watch issued for the tri-state region

High wind watch issued for the tri-state region

A High Wind Watch is in effect Thursday night through Friday for the Panhandle and surrounding region. Gusts up to 70 mph are possible, with dangerous travel and elevated fire danger. Secure loose items and avoid outdoor burning.

Sidney School Board receives clean audit for 2024-25 fiscal year

Sidney School Board receives clean audit for 2024-25 fiscal year

The Sidney School District Board of Education received a clean audit opinion for the 2024-25 fiscal year during its meeting Monday, according to Rauner and Associates.

From first response to fire and smoke, Tyler Miller builds First Response Meat Company

From first response to fire and smoke, Tyler Miller builds First Response Meat Company

Sidney's Tyler Miller found a new path after years in EMS, building First Response Meat Company through patience, family, and a love for cooking.

Firefighters quickly contain two grass fires along Highway 30 near Potter

Firefighters quickly contain two grass fires along Highway 30 near Potter

Potter Volunteer Fire Department crews quickly contained two grass fires along Highway 30 east of Potter Monday afternoon, limiting each blaze to about one acre.

Chadron's Dr. Julie Downing Honored with Friend of NSASSP Award

Chadron's Dr. Julie Downing Honored with Friend of NSASSP Award

Julie Downing of Chadron has been named the 2025 Friend of NSASSP Award recipient for her leadership and support of Nebraska educators.

Two-vehicle injury crash closes Highway 26 in Scottsbluff

Two-vehicle injury crash closes Highway 26 in Scottsbluff

One person was injured in a two-vehicle crash Monday afternoon at Highway 26 and East 27th Street in Scottsbluff.

SAGA Fund to celebrate completion of $1 million challenge grant in Sidney

SAGA Fund to celebrate completion of $1 million challenge grant in Sidney

SAGA Fund will celebrate its $1 million challenge grant milestone Thursday at Boss City Brewing.

Alliance Public Library puts on Blind Date with a Book Contest

Alliance Public Library puts on Blind Date with a Book Contest

If you’re looking for a fun excuse to read something new, and a chance at a romantic night out, the Alliance Public Library has you covered.

Imperial man arrested after DUI stop, struggle with deputies

Imperial man arrested after DUI stop, struggle with deputies

An Imperial man faces multiple charges after a DUI traffic stop late Friday night escalated into a struggle with deputies.

Scottsbluff native Seth Dvorak begins Nebraska State Patrol training after Marine Corps service

Scottsbluff native Seth Dvorak begins Nebraska State Patrol training after Marine Corps service

Banner County graduate and former U.S. Marine Seth Dvorak has begun training to become a Nebraska State Trooper.

Two arrested after traffic stop leads to drug, firearm seizure in Sterling

Two arrested after traffic stop leads to drug, firearm seizure in Sterling

Two people were arrested after police seized methamphetamine and a handgun during a traffic stop in Sterling.